By Ghazali Ibrahim
Following the directive from the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, Nigerian music legend, Wasiu Ayinde Marshal, popularly known as K1 De Ultimate, has been placed on a no-fly list, effectively barring him from using all commercial airlines both domestic and international pending the outcome of a full investigation into the ValueJet tarmac incident.
The move comes after the Fuji maestro was captured in a now-viral video allegedly obstructing a ValueJet aircraft from taxiing at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja on August 5.
In a related development, NCAA has submitted a petition to the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun and Attorney General of Federation, Lateef Fagbemi to probe him on the alleged unruly behaviour.
So, what options are now available to K1 De Ultimate?
1. Private Jet Charter: While barred from commercial flights, there is currently no explicit restriction on the use of private jets. K1 may explore hiring a private aircraft, though this is subject to security clearance and discretion of private aviation operators who may still comply with regulatory guidance.
2. Road Transportation: For local travel, Wasiu Ayinde may rely more heavily on road transport. Though this may present logistical challenges for tight tour schedules, it remains a viable option within Nigeria and parts of West Africa if he’s having concert or show outside Nigeria.
3. Legal Appeal: K1 can contest the travel ban legally. His media team already maintains that he was not at fault during the incident and may pursue legal action to clear his name and lift the no-fly status.
4. Diplomatic or Industry Intervention: Given his status in the entertainment industry, there could be behind-the-scenes lobbying or intervention by influential figures to resolve the matter amicably. Particularly, rumor has it that both FAAN and SAHCON heads are KWAM1 kinsmen.
As of now, neither K1 nor his legal team has publicly responded to the no-fly directive.
The aviation ministry insists the move is temporary and necessary to ensure accountability and safety.
